Waste Management in Salem

Effective waste management is crucial for maintaining a clean and sustainable environment. In Salem, Republic Services oversees the collection and recycling processes, ensuring that waste is handled efficiently and responsibly. This article provides detailed information on the types of waste, pickup schedules, bin requirements, programs, and guidelines for avoiding violations.

Types of Waste

Salem residents are encouraged to segregate their waste into the following categories for effective disposal:

  • General Waste: This includes non-recyclable household waste such as food scraps and certain packaging materials.
  • Recyclable Materials: Items such as paper, cardboard, glass, plastics, and metals that can be processed and reused.
  • Yard Waste: Organic materials like leaves, grass clippings, and small branches.
  • Hazardous Waste: Special disposal is required for items like batteries, paint, and chemicals to prevent environmental harm.

Pickup Schedule

Waste collection in Salem follows a structured schedule to ensure timely and efficient service:

  • General Waste: Collected weekly on a designated day specific to your neighborhood.
  • Recyclables: Picked up bi-weekly on the same day as general waste.
  • Yard Waste: Collected weekly, ensuring that organic waste is composted appropriately.

Residents are advised to place their waste bins out for collection by 6:00 AM on the scheduled day.

Bin Requirements

To facilitate smooth waste collection, residents must adhere to specific bin guidelines:

  • Bin Sizes: Choose the appropriate bin size based on your household’s waste generation needs.
  • Placement: Bins should be placed at the curb with the handles facing the house and spaced at least three feet apart.
  • Maintenance: Ensure bins are clean and in good condition to avoid attracting pests.

Programs

Salem offers several programs to promote sustainable waste management practices:

  • Recycling Initiatives: Educational programs and resources are available to help residents recycle effectively.
  • Composting Workshops: These workshops teach residents how to compost organic waste at home, reducing landfill contributions.
  • Hazardous Waste Collection Events: Special events are organized to safely collect and dispose of hazardous materials.

Violations

To maintain community standards and environmental safety, residents must avoid the following violations:

  • Placing waste out for collection on the wrong day or outside designated times.
  • Improperly segregating waste, such as mixing recyclables with general waste.
  • Overfilling bins or placing items outside the bin, which can lead to spills and littering.

Adhering to these guidelines helps keep Salem clean and ensures compliance with local waste management regulations.

For more information on waste management services in Salem, residents can visit the Republic Services website or contact their local office.

Contact Republic Services

  • Service: Republic Services Salem
  • Population Served: Approximately 178,000 residents
  • Address: 1890 16th Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302
  • Website: republicservices.com
  • Phone: (503) 363-8890